Angels Camp, CA…The Angels Camp Business Association presents the grand kick-off to local holiday celebrations on Saturday, Nov. 25 with the sixth annual Christmas of Angels Open House and Wine Stroll from 4 to 8 p.m. and the 27th annual Parade of Lights beginning at 5 p.m. in historic downtown Angels Camp, rain or shine. The theme for this year’s holiday festivities – “City of Angels Winter Wonderland.”

“This evening full of cheer is sure to get you in the holiday spirit! We are dedicated to making this an event that is fun for the whole family. Between the decorations, lights, caroling, Santa and the parade, it really gets you in the holiday spirit, plus you get to cross many items off your Christmas shopping list knowing you’re supporting the local economy,” exclaimed Marilyn Smith, ACBA Board Member and this year’s coordinator of Christmas events.

The festivities will begin at the annual Bough Making Party Nov. 20 starting at 5:30 p.m. at Wayne and Son Automotive, 329 N. Main St., Angels Camp. Refreshments will be served and bough makers are encouraged to bring gloves and wire cutters. Every year volunteers make over two hundred boughs using fresh forest greens and big red bows that are hung on poles from the North end of town to the very end of South Main Street.

During the Open House, Historic Downtown Main Street merchants will be offering a number of special discounts starting at 4 p.m., as well as festive treats and beverages, and local wineries will be offering tastings. Commemorative glasses can be purchased for $5. The holiday ambiance is enhanced by caroling with the Rock Forge Group. Caroling begins at 4:15 p.m. in front of the Calaveras Visitor’s Center and the City tree will be lighted there at 4:30 p.m. “Come early,” says Smith. “Enjoy an early dinner at one of the downtown restaurants, wine tasting and shopping at stores and pop-up shops.”

The Parade of Lights commences at 5 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 820 S. Main St., showcasing a wide range of entries. Awards for parade entries will be presented in the following categories: best float, vintage vehicle, horse group, musical group, school, business, individual and other. Entry fee is $20 and forms are available online at angelscampbusiness.com or by calling the ACBA office, 736-1333. After the parade Santa will hear children’s wishes on the porch of the Calaveras Visitors Center with photo opportunities.

Anne Forrest and Bob Fienberg have been chosen as the Grand Marshals of the Parade for their countless volunteer hours to Angels Camp and Calaveras County.

“We are honored to have Bob and Anne as our Grand Marshals this year,” says Smith. “Their tireless efforts have been instrumental in many of the organizations and events that serve the residents, business owners and visitors of Angels Camp.”

In addition, the annual Christmas Gala will be held at Camps Restaurant starting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4th featuring a holiday buffet dinner, live music, dancing and live and silent auctions. Cost is $50 and tickets are available at angelcampbusiness.com, in Angels Camp at the ACBA Office, Middleton’s and Turner’s Wild West.

For more information, visit angelscampbusiness.com or call the ACBA office at (209) 736-1333.